King James Version

What Does Hebrews 3:11 Mean?

“So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.) They: Gr. If they shall enter”

Context

When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years.

Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways.

So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.) They: Gr. If they shall enter

Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.

But exhort one another daily , while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(11) **So**.—Rather, *as* (Hebrews 4:3). It is with these as it was with their fathers, the generations that came out of Egypt, unto whom God sware, “They shall not enter into My rest” (Numbers 14:21-24). The form in which these words appear below (Hebrews 4:3; Hebrews 4:5) in the Authorised version, “If they shall enter into my rest,” is an imitation of the original construction. See Numbers 14:23, where “they shall not see” is. as the margin shows, expressed in Hebrew by “if they (shall) see” the land. **Into my rest.**—Into the land where Jehovah shall give rest to His people and shall dwell with them. (See Deuteronomy 12:9; 1Kings 8:56; Psalm 132:14; Isaiah 66:1; 1Chronicles 6:31; 2Chronicles 6:41.)

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Hebrews. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Hebrews 3:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.